They’re bold, they’re brilliant, and they’re bringing Brazilian funk straight to your summer playlists.
Identical twins Clinton and Calvin Spellman—aka the Spellman Twinz—are not just viral sensations. With over 1.2 million followers on TikTok, a thriving YouTube channel, and a growing legion of Instagram fans, they’re redefining what it means to be queer, Black, and unapologetically themselves in music and media. Their latest single, “Yum Yum” is a deliciously high-energy dance track that blends Brazilian funk with a dash of hip-hop and their infectious pop charisma. It’s a sugar rush in song form—and a preview of their upcoming album that promises “more heat, more vibes, and more reasons to dance.”
But behind the shimmering visuals and kinetic choreography lies a journey marked by resilience, reinvention, and relentless joy.
Growing up in Northern California, the twins faced more than their fair share of hardship. After their parents split, they spent much of their childhood navigating instability—including time in foster care and enduring their father’s abuse. Music became their refuge long before it became their career. “We used to have a clock radio in our room,” Clinton recalls. “We’d just sit there at night, dreaming of what life could be.”
By high school, they were embracing their identities as gay young men—only to be rejected by their father again. Forced to fend for themselves, they reunited with their mother just before graduation and eventually attended Sacramento State University on track scholarships. But when their dance videos began going viral, their new online fame clashed with their student-athlete image, leading to their dismissal from the team. Soon after, both experienced mental health crises and were hospitalized—a moment that could have broken them, but instead, became the spark that ignited their music career.
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“Music gave us back our voice,” Calvin says. “And we wanted that voice to be about fun, about authenticity, about being exactly who we are.”
“Yum Yum” is just that—a sonic celebration of confidence and desire. It’s cheeky, it’s catchy, and yes, it’s totally crave-worthy. Inspired by Brazilian culture and grounded in a playful metaphor about being the “dessert” someone can’t resist, the song channels everything the twins love about dance music: joy, release, and the power of movement.
In an exclusive GLAAD Q&A, the Spellman Twinz open up about their inspirations (from Rihanna to Pedro Sampaio), the story behind “Yum Yum”, and how they’re using their platform to create a safe space for other queer people of color. Whether they’re dancing in a TikTok challenge or performing live at Sacramento Pride, their mission is clear: be bold, be loud, and above all, be yourself.
As Calvin puts it, “Our platform is a way to inspire other queer Black folks that being you—and being authentic—is more than enough.”
Check out GLAAD’s exclusive interview with the Spellman Twinz below for all the tea on their creative process, new music, and what’s next for this dynamic duo.
GLAAD: How would you describe your sound?
Spellman Twinz: Uptempo, confident, and designed to make people move. We’re really inspired by Brazilian funk, early 2010s pop, and the kind of music that makes you feel hot—literally and emotionally.
GLAAD: Who are some of your musical influences?
Spellman Twinz: Britney Spears, Nicki Minaj, Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Katy Perry—and more recently, artists like Lil Nas X, Doja Cat, Pedro Sampaio, Anitta, Bad Bunny, and Durand Bernarr. We love artists who blur genres and embrace theatricality.
GLAAD: Tell us the story behind “Yum Yum.”
Spellman Twinz: We wanted to make a song that felt like dessert. “Yum Yum” is flirty, fun, and a little bit indulgent. It’s rooted in Brazilian funk because we love that rhythm—it’s chaotic in the best way.
GLAAD: What do you think fans are connecting with in the track?
Spellman Twinz: It’s the energy. It’s confident and celebratory. “Yum Yum” is a summer gay anthem for the girls, the gays, and everyone in between. It’s made to be danced to.
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GLAAD: How does the music video reflect the song’s message?
Spellman Twinz: The video plays with the metaphor of desire and treats. Think: candy, cravings, and confidence. We wanted it to feel vibrant and sexy without taking itself too seriously.
GLAAD: What’s your songwriting process like?
Spellman Twinz: We start with the beat—it sets the mood and tempo. Then we brainstorm themes, metaphors, and lyrics. Sometimes it’s personal, sometimes it’s just a vibe we’re chasing. We also work with a producer and a songwriter who help us fine-tune everything, but the core ideas always start with us.
GLAAD: How do you decide who sings what?
Spellman Twinz: We go with the flow. Sometimes one of us takes the lead if we came up with a section, but we’re always looking for a balance. It’s very collaborative and intuitive.
GLAAD: Are you involved in the production side as well?
Spellman Twinz: Absolutely. We’re very hands-on—from the beat structure to vocal arrangements. We work closely with our producer (who’s also our best friend), and we’re involved every step of the way.
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GLAAD: Is “Yum Yum” part of a larger body of work?
Spellman Twinz: Yes! It’s the first single from our upcoming Brazilian funk-inspired album. The next single “DINERO”drops June 13, and it’s totally different—still sexy, but focused on money and moving on. We’re excited for people to hear the range.
GLAAD: Where do you love performing most?
Spellman Twinz: Sacramento will always be home, so that’s special. But LA shows have been amazing too—big energy, big love. Honestly, anywhere people are ready to dance and feel something is where we want to be.
GLAAD: Who would you love to collaborate with?
Spellman Twinz: Lil Nas X, Kaytranada, Durand Bernarr. We’re about energy and creativity over clout. If the vibe is right, we’re in.
GLAAD: What artists are you currently vibing with?
Spellman Twinz: Kaytranada’s always on rotation. Bronze Avery’s killing it right now. And Anitta, always. She’s in her own lane.
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GLAAD: Why is social media such an important platform for you?
Spellman Twinz: It’s the new stage. It’s where people discover you, connect with you, and feel seen. We love engaging with fans directly—it’s fun, but it also keeps us grounded.
GLAAD: Any final message for your fans?
Spellman Twinz: Expect the unexpected. We’re always evolving, always trying new things—whether that’s a house track or a rap moment. And to every queer Black person watching us: you are enough. Your voice, your weirdness, your joy—it matters. If we can be part of that journey for you, we’re honored.
Don’t miss what’s next—this twin duo is just getting started. Their latest release, “DINERO” drops June 13th—a bold new track you won’t want to miss. Pre-save the song now!
Throughout this piece, themes of mental health, emotional care, and community support have been central—because behind every artist, leader, and creator is a human being navigating real challenges.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please know that you are not alone.
Call or text the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 — available 24/7, free and confidential.
Your mental health matters. Your life matters. And support is always within reach.
